By Molly Hiipakka, United Way

On May 8th, students from Minnesota North, Itasca Campus, took action to combat food insecurity in Itasca County. During their spring carnival, over two dozen students teamed up with United Way of 1000 Lakes to pack 660 pounds of culturally relevant food for local families in need. 

Food insecurity affects thousands in the region, with 1 in 6 children and more than 5,400 residents uncertain of where their next meal will come from. Local pantries often struggle to meet the diverse needs of the community, especially when it comes to providing culturally familiar foods. In response, United Way introduced Flavors of Our Community in 2023, a program that delivers pantry packs filled with items like beans, noodles, sauces, berries, and spices—ingredients that, when combined with fresh items, create nutritious and culturally relevant meals. 

Annually, Flavors of Our Community distributes over 210 food packs, equivalent to 520 meals. The initiative goes beyond providing nourishment—it fosters dignity and connection by offering meals that reflect the cultural heritage of local families. 

Kim Brink Smith, Executive Director of United Way of 1000 Lakes, said, “This initiative wouldn’t be possible without the support of volunteers and groups like Minnesota North. Their dedication makes culturally relevant food accessible to those who need it most.” 

With support from the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, Compeer Financial, and the Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation, the program is expanding to include more locally sourced items, such as maple syrup from Master’s Maples, further enriching the community’s food systems and economy. 

Through Flavors of Our Community, United Way and its partners are not just filling pantries—they are creating connections, empowering families, and building a stronger, more inclusive community. 

Minnesota North Students Lead the Way in Addressing Hunger – United Way of 1000 Lakes